FAMU-DRS Superintendent Ronald Holmes writes his thoughts on a banner in recognition of the ceremony.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Construct Two Group, the firm responsible for the construction of the new Florida A&M University Developmental Research School (FAMU-DRS), held a Topping Off/Appreciation Day to celebrate one of their latest projects.

A crowd of construction workers waited patiently as FAMU President James H. Ammons, his leadership team, members of the Board of Trustees, FAMU-DRS superintendent Ronald Holmes, and FAMU-DRS administrators entered the FAMU-DRS future gym.

The crowd grew silent as Derrick Wallace, FAMU alum and Construct Two Group chairman, made his way to the podium.

“This construction firm is owned by FAMU alumni and 82 percent of its staff is FAMU alumni, so we’re excited about this project,” he said. “We are even more excited about such an outstanding education facility.”

Wallace said the new FAMU-DRS will be remembered as a milestone for Construction Two Group.

Soon after, Ammons took the podium and reminded the audience of this pivotal moment in the new facility’s history.

“This facility marks the next chapter for DRS,” said Ammons. “We want to recognize a company that has been groomed by our [FAMU’s] hands. This is what it’s all about—raising students to be the best, pushing them to graduate at the top of the class and allowing them to come back and show us what they can do.”

Holmes followed Ammons and proudly explained how the future home of FAMU-DRS fits perfectly into his plan of action.

“It is my main goal to lead FAMU-DRS to new heights and lead its student to their highest potential,” said Holmes. “With this new facility, we’ll be a step closer to getting our students in the right direction.”

The FAMU-DRS is scheduled to be completed by September 29, 2008 and will hold up to 476 kindergarten through 12 grade students. The school will be composed of six main buildings: a gymnasium, administration building, cafeteria and elementary, middle and high school buildings. It will also have football, track, baseball and softball fields. Construction costs for FAMU-DRS totals $24,656,782.

Ammons, his leadership team, Holmes, FAMU-DRS administration and members of the Board of Trustees signed a banner in recognition of the day’s event.